The Aston Martin V8 Vantage S is beefed up by a host of features that take the standard Vantage to the next level. The coupe packs the same 4.7-liter V8 under the hood as its predecessors, though the scientists in Gaydon have managed to wrench a full 430 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque from the eight-pot. The engine is now bolted to a tweaked version of the company’s seven-speed SportShift II transmission with even shorter ratios than before (15:1 compared to the standard car’s 17:1).

Larger diameter front brake discs are over new six-piston front brake calipers. Chassis revisions include new springs and dampers and wider rear wheels, and a specially tuned dynamic stability control (DSC) system. A new brake module includes Brake Assist (HBA) which provides brake boost in emergency braking situations, and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

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The inspiration for the Vantage S is the brilliant Aston Martin Vantage GT4 race car. Brilliant because of its super rigid bonded aluminium chassis – the perfect platform for a sharp edged and successful racer. The new 19-inch V spoke wheels are unique to the Vantage S, but buyers can option a set of forged alloys for a half a kilo saving at each corner.

The standard Aston Martin Vantage interior is bespoke and timeless, but the S has been given special treatment to reflect the sharper edge of this car. Those features include a three-track stich on the seats and door trim, as well as a new folded leather design along the stitch tracks. You might also want to take a peep at the optional carbon fibre and Kevlar seats, which will not only provide more bolster, but also save a significant 17 kilos per car. Although the seats are hand trimmed by Aston Martin craftspeople at Gaydon a supplier to the motorsport and aviation industries fabricates them.

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Total man hours required to build Aston Martin Vantage S is in excess of 185, which includes 50 man hours to paint and a staggering 70 man hours to hand trim the cabin. Buyers can also choose an Obsidian Black leather or Alcantara trimmed steering wheel with a contrasting or matching stitch for the leather version.

Prices for the coupe start at £102,500 ($163,000), and £110,700 ($176,000) for the roadster. Prospective customers are able to place their orders now from Aston Martin’s global dealership network.

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